1. Ms. Genovese Social Studies
How to Write an A+ DBQ
Ms. Genovese
Social Studies

2. What is a DBQ?
A DBQ is a Document Based Question that consist of Historical Context, Documents, and a Task.
In English class, this process is known as citing Text Based Evidence.
Students then use the documents and outside knowledge to answer a question, also known as a task.

3. Don’t be nervous! Getting started is always the hardest part!
Remember…
Don’t be nervous! Getting started is always the hardest part!

4. What are the Steps? Step 1: Read the historical context and task.
Step 2: Read the documents and answer the questions that go with it.
Step 3: Outline your essay.
Step 4: Write the thesis.
Step 5: Write your essay.

5. Step 1: Read the Historical Context and Task carefully
This is the actual question that you are attempting to answer in the essay. This will help you write your thesis, or last sentence of your introduction.
Background knowledge that will let you know what the essay is about and give you ideas for writing your introduction.

6. Step 2: Read Documents and Answer the Questions
Students are given primary/secondary sources (Documents) to read and answer questions that pertain to the Historical Context, such as:
Maps/ Graphs/ Charts
Documents/ Letters/ Diaries

7. Step 3: Outline the Essay
Before you write a DBQ essay, you should outline your information.

8. Step 4: Write Thesis Statement
Shmoop Video

9. Step 4: Write the Thesis
* Ignore rule #2 for a DBQ thesis. DBQ’s are strictly fact based so never write you own opinon.*

10. Step 5: Write the Essay

11. DBQ Rules You must cite at least 1 document in each body paragraph.
Example: "When the (Nile) arises earth rejoices and men are glad.."(Doc. 1)
Do not use pronouns or opinions:
We think…
I believe…
As you can see…

12. Powtoon Review:
How to Write a DBQ